What is being done to address the other factors eg cultural, rurality (geographical), economic, that influence student retention?
The new institutions will need to be active in promoting the cultural change that will support their course delivery. The accountability of both the academy and the polytechnic for regional outcomes will ensure that partnerships with district high schools are meaningful and enduring and that students can have year 11 programs closer to home. The Minister for Education has also announced expanded accommodation options in urban centres from 2008 for those students who have to live away from home to study [refer to media release]. It is important for us all to work together to improve community attitudes towards continuing education and training so that participation rates will improve. This is not an easy or short term task!
